Travel to Cuba from the U.S.

This week's Top 20 includes an education-packed experience in a country widely forbidden to U.S. citizens -- Cuba.

For years U.S. residents haven't been able to legally fly to the country. But the Obama administration has eased travel restrictions in the past year, making it easier for cultural, religious and educational travel from the States. Under these "people-to-people" licenses, a small number of U.S. companies -- including Friendly Planet -- have been approved to bring travelers.

The trips aren't a typical beach or tourist vacation; the schedules are busy with visits to Cuban artists' studios and trips to schools to learn about the Cuban education system. But these itineraries ensure that you'll interact with dozens of Cubans and return home with a better understanding of the country's culture.

This is the first time that Travelzoo has ever shown a Cuba package to our U.S. users. Click here for more information on Friendly Planet's two programs (which include the Cuba entrance visa and all U.S. government paperwork). The four-night getaway costs $1899 per person; similar educational packages are selling for $2250 -- and in some cases, more than $3000.